Forecast: Rain expected in Birmingham area through weekend; temperatures likely to rise

Rain is likely to linger in the Birmingham area through New Year's Day, but -- on the bright side -- temperatures are expected to rise as the weekend approaches, according to the National Weather Service.

There is a 50 percent chance of rain tonight, mainly after midnight, with a low around 38.

Thursday's forecast calls for a 50 percent chance of rain with a high near 56 and a low around 50.

Friday will be cloudy, with a 40 percent chance of rain and a high near 67.

The chance of rain and thunderstorms is expected to 80 percent New Year's Eve with a low around 58.

New Year's Day will start 2011 with a 70 percent chance of rain, and possibly a thunderstorm, with a high near 61.